Last month, Rensselaer kicked off the 2009 United Way of the Greater Capital Region fundraising campaign. United Way works to advance the common good by focusing on basic needs, family support, and financial stability, according to the organization. This year, funds were raised through a variety of activities and events, including campaign pledging by members of the Rensselaer campus community, raffles, bake sales, and through the annual Jail-n-Bail fundraiser.

The Rensselaer United Way committee also coordinated the inaugural United Way “Live United” concert that was held in the Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center. The event featured a series of live performances by members of the Rensselaer campus community including: ballroom dancing; A Kuk Sool Won performance by Jesse Barr; and vocals by Michael Gentile, Partial Credit, the Rusty Pipes, the Rensselyrics, and YouTube sensation “Janitor Man” Willie the Moak. Secretary of the Institute and General Counsel Charles Carletta delivered opening remarks, while Raymond Lutzky ’02, director of outreach and associate director of enrollment, served as the emcee. Jim Mulligan, vice president of donor relations with the United Way of the Greater Capital Region, also attended the event.